ASHES, Diego Luna’s migration drama, has been snapped up for North American release by Watermelon Pictures.

Luna directs and co-wrote the film, adding to his on-screen profile with a project that puts him firmly behind the camera as well as in the producer’s seat.

The deal lands after “Ashes” had its world premiere at Cannes, and just ahead of the film’s next major stop: a bow at the Toronto film festival next month.

Beyond the festival circuit, the film’s roots are literary. “Ashes” is adapted from the feminist novel “Ceniza en la boca,” which has been described as critically acclaimed.

For Watermelon Pictures, the pickup is another notable acquisition, expanding its slate with a film centred on migration and made by one of Mexico’s best-known actor-directors. Further release details for North America weren’t included with the announcement.